An Energy Performance Certificate assesses the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of your property. Everything you need to know about EPCs is covered in this blog.
Official guidance on EPCs from the UK government can be found here. (UK Government EPC Guidance)
What is Involved in an Energy Performance Certificate?
Introduced in 2007, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) certifies a property’s energy efficiency. All buildings in the UK must now comply with this law to be built, sold, or rented. There are some specific exemptions, such as listed buildings and temporary structures. The certificate provides both a letter grade (A-G) and a numerical grade (1-100). G is the lowest and extremely poor score, while A is the highest rating, indicating that the property has exceptional energy efficiency. If you implement the suggested energy-saving solutions, the report will also show you a possible score. An EPC certificate is valid for 10 years.
Before lawfully renting out their house, landlords must present an up-to-date EPC certificate, and estate agents should make sure they enforce this requirement.
What is involved in an energy performance certificate?
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in England and Wales, a property must have a score of E or above to be legally rented out. There is no minimum EPC rating required to sell a property, but a valid certificate must be provided to the buyer. A fine of up to £5,000 for residential buildings and £150,000 for non-residential buildings could result from failing to meet this score and make the necessary adjustments to increase the structure’s energy efficiency. Further information on MEES regulations is available from the UK government. (MEES Regulations)
Is an EPC required?
You are legally required to have an EPC if you are selling a property, renting a property, or if a new property is being built. An owner-occupier who is not selling or renting does not legally need an EPC. Commercial structures do have several exceptions, though. These consist of:
- A structure that will be occupied for no more than two years
- A structure utilised for religious purposes
- locations for industry or non-residential structures with low energy consumption.
- A detached structure that is 50 square meters or less in size, or one that is about to be demolished
If you’re preparing a property for sale or rent, our House Clearance Services can help make the process smoother. (House Clearance Services)
What Is a Good EPC Score?
An A-C grade on an energy performance certificate is considered respectable. Band A properties are probably the ones with the lowest carbon dioxide emissions and energy costs. The majority of properties in the UK fall into bands D–E. Advice on increasing the energy efficiency of your property while saving money and protecting the environment is always included in an EPC certificate. As noted, there could be a significant fine for breaking these rules and failing to achieve a sufficient EPC grade.
For insights into property value assessment, see our Property Valuation Guide. (Property Valuation Guide)
For further information about our probate clearance services, call 0203 9859552 to speak with National Clearances.